Business Profile: Bowlmor White Plains
Bowlmor AMF opened its first location in Westchester at the site of the former AMF White Plains Lanes, 47 Tarrytown Road, March 26, with a grand opening party that attracted over 300 guests.
The new 56-lane venue is one of 18 new locations opened recently across the country and is the creation of Tom Shannon, Bowlmor AMF, CEO and founder who says he modeled his growing bowling empire after the original built in Union Square in 1997. The concept treats bowling more as entertainment than as a sport.
Unlike the bowling alleys of 15 to 17 years ago, Shannon said he saw a market desire for a better product. His concept is based on creating a good aesthetic with a service intensive atmosphere and good food.
Studio Lemonade was hired to do the design work.
Bowlmor White Plains has 56 lanes divided between two separate floors. The venue’s lower level evokes a posh nightclub feel with black light lanes, a deluxe bar area and an adjacent DJ booth. Mood lighting sets the tone with chrome Sputnik fixtures and 20-foot-long, neon signs that call out to guests with irreverent aphorisms. The lower level is designed for party rentals, both large and small and features a fireside lounge with Mad Men-style sofas, Cero coffee tables and a 7-foot-wide gas fireplace.
The second of three bars greets patrons on the top floor, serving up a selection of original signature cocktails. With 28 lanes, brighter lights and professional equipment, this third floor will cater especially to leagues and recreational bowlers.
About the new location, Shannon, who was host on opening night said: “We are delighted to bring the Bowlmor experience to Westchester County. It is an exciting time for this community and we are thrilled to be a part of the growing entertainment landscape of this area.”
Bowlers familiar with the original White Plains AMF will be surprised. There is an expanded interactive gaming arcade featuring nearly 50 titles. Traditional favorites include air hockey and NBA Hoops. Advanced games include Star Wars Battle Pod, with a surround-sound dome and 180-degree curved screen – apparently one of a kind in Westchester County.
On the lanes, glow-in-the-dark lighting features banquette seating and lane-side servers who will deliver your order VIP style, right to your lane.
The new facility also boasts an upgraded and expanded full-service kitchen serving innovative cuisine designed by Executive Chef Ed Porter—winner of Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games. Signature menu items include the five-pound Behemoth Burger, The Ultimate Grilled Cheese, Dolce Pollo Barbeque Flatbread, and Monster Cookie Melt.
Bowlmor White Plains is located in the White Plains Shopping Center at 47 Tarrytown Road. Walk-in bowling guests are welcome. Information about organizing a special event can be found by visiting bowlmor.com.
